Ruth Ann Keilty was born 15 March 1928 in Watertown, CT. She was the daughter of Frederick Andrew Keilty and Sarah Bryan Keilty. Ruth was the last girl and the 2nd-to-last child born into the family of 17 children. Her brothers and sisters were Sarah Alice, William Bryan, James Richard, Verna Ruth, Mortimer Michael, Bryan Thomas, Frederick Michael, Mary Jane, Vincent Joseph, Eugene William, Rose Joan, John Richard, Virginia Ann, Thomas Robert, and Michael Joseph Keilty.

Ruth graduated from Watertown High School. Following graduation, she attended St. Francis School of Nursing in Hartford, where Ruth received her R.N degree. She worked for the Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington for several years.

At the age of 22, Ruth took flying lessons and eventually received her private pilot's license.

Ruth later entered the Maryknoll Order's convent, remaining there for 5 years and taking her vows. She left the Order in 1955, resuming her nursing career.

At the time of her illness, Ruth was employed by the State of Connecticut, as Registered Nurse caring for residents at the Southbury Training School. She was living at 65 Pine Street in Waterbury, and shared an apartment with her friend, Margaret A. Egan. Margaret was also a former MaryKnoll Sister and a Registered Nurse.

Ruth died at the New Lakeview Convalescent Home in Cheshire, CT following a long illness. She is buried in New St. Joseph Cemetery in the Egan Family Plot, along with her friend, Margaret Egan and Margaret's family members.

OBITUARY FOR RUTH ANN KEILTY
Published in the Watertown Town Times, July 27, 1989.

Miss Ruth Keilty - Funeral services for Miss Ruth Keilty, 61, of Pine Street, Waterbury, were held Friday, July 21, at 9 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church. Burial was in new St. Joseph's Cemetery. Miss Keilty died Wednesday, July 19, at New Lakeview Convalescent Center after a long illness. She most recently was employed by the state at Southbury Training School. She leaves six brothers, John Keilty of Watertown; four sisters and several nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to O.L. and C. Monastery, 92300 Walker Lane, Amity, Ohio 97101; or Trapistine Monastery, Arnold Street, Wrentham, Mass. The Bergin Funeral Home, Waterbury, was in charge of arrangements.